5 Physiotherapy, chiropractic and osteopathy clinics

Updated on 1st August 2017 by Anthia Chng|

Enjoy golfing but hate having to worry about the possible risks and side effects of playing the sport, or suffering from chronic neck pain over the years? From treating sports injuries like slipped discs and knee pain, to rehabilitating spine issues such as scoliosis, we speak to five experts from physiotherapy, chiropractic and osteopathy clinics on the popular misconceptions and top treatments in Singapore.

Hear from the founder:

“Watching the transformation in the lives of those who have sought our care and implemented our guidance is more rewarding and fun than I have ever imagined- I’m grateful for the impact it has on my patients’ lives. My evaluations always start with a consultation, followed by a detailed examination and posture analysis. Recommendations are made based on individual unique needs and certain rehab and posture correction therapies may also be recommended if needed.

Chiropractic care is not only for those with back pain. There are a growing number of studies that suggest that the chiropractic approach to reducing nerve disturbance along the spine can enhance the ability of the brain and nerve system to control and regulate the body.B y getting your spine adjusted, one such study showed thatit decreases the stress hormone, norepinephrine, in the body, and this is fantastic as it’ll help you to handle your daily routines while feeling better and getting sick less often.”

Awaken Chiropractic

Dr Amy Morris from Awaken Chiropractic specialises in Network Spinal Analysis (NSA), which uses gentle yet precise touch to the spine to release tension and stress. The centre also offers womb lifting, an intensive, three hour-long healing session for women with issues like menstrual disorders, infertility and pelvic pain.

Hear from the founder:

Dr Amy Morris, five years practising in Singapore

“What I enjoy most about NSA is witnessing the changes that happen to my clients – physically I see huge changes in posture, with pain and symptoms going away. I love seeing them light up after the sessions and hearing about how their lives are changing for the better. A session involves gentle contacts to the spine, which engage the frontal cortex of the brain to develop new strategies for healing. Patterns of tension in the body are shifted, and the nervous system goes into a state of ease where it’s able to heal more effectively.

A common misconception about chiropractic care is that it’s only for adults. In fact, children get huge benefits from it, including increased focus and doing better in school.”

One Physio

This physiotherapy centre has two outlets, both located in the CBD. Services include neck, back, sports injury, post-operative and golf physiotherapy, rehabilitation pilates, as well as workplace consultation services.

Hear from the senior physiotherapist:

Joel Bates, 11 years practising

“I chose physiotherapy as it combines my fascination in the human body and the ability to help people. I love to play golf, so further studies and specialisation in golf physiotherapy have allowed me to combine work with pleasure. Also, I enjoy helping people resolve their injury or movement dysfunction, while helping them to learn about their body along the way.

The aim of the first session is to diagnose the problem and find the driving cause behind the problem, the injury or pain. Treating symptoms alone is not enough – we have to delve deeper into understanding the biomechanical cause of the problem. Treatment will then be based on this assessment. Education is paramount through the entire process – helping my patients understand their issue and what will be done to fix it are critical steps to more effective, long-term results.”

Dr David Tio founded Osteopathic Treatment Centre more than 30 years ago

Osteopathic Treatment Centre

Apart from osteopathy, chiropody and podiatry services, this long-standing osteopathic practice houses a Centre for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CCAM), where there are more than 12 healthcare professionals offering a wide range of therapies including acupuncture, homeopathy, psychotherapy and therapeutic massage.

Hear from two osteopaths:

Dr David Tio, founder, 36 years practising

“There is great satisfaction to be able to alleviate pain and heal children, especially those with special needs. During the first appointment, we find out more about your medical history; then a Structural Diagnosis is done and dysfunction is corrected by spinal manipulation. In my many years of practice, I have seen over 50,000 patients improved through osteopathy.”

Jan-Mark Smith, five years of experience in osteopathy and 15 years in sports injuries

“After four years of experience in Singapore as an osteopath, I joined Osteopathic Treatment Centre one year ago. When I had undergone treatment for whiplash injury, the treatment was so good that it made me decide to become an osteopath. Helping people get better is so rewarding. Each treatment is hands-on; just trust your practitioner and relax during the treatment.”

The Osteopathic Centre

Launched in 2008, this established centre has three clinics across the island – one in the East Coast (#01-02 Bowmont Centre, 20 Siglap Drive), one in the Central (Park Avenue Rochester, 31 Rochester Drive, Level 24) and one in the CBD (#06-05 The Arcade, 11 Collyer Quay). Its team of practitioners specialises in the prevention, treatment and rehabilitation of conditions and injuries to the musculoskeletal system, such as scoliosis, disc problems and repetitive strain injuries. Services include biomechanical assessments, pre- and post-natal care, and corporate wellness programmes.

Hear from an osteopath:

“During the first session, a medical history is taken, followed by a full medical and biomechanical assessment to understand the root cause of any symptoms affecting the patient’s quality of life. Then, a diagnosis is made, followed by a discussion about the treatment plan thereafter. The treatment usually includes osteopathic manual therapy, rehabilitation, lifestyle advice and referral to other professionals if needed.

New patients should bring with them any reports from X-rays, MRI or past medical notes. No specific preparation is necessary, but I strongly recommend arriving early to avoid feeling rushed or stressed. This is especially important if you’re bringing in babies and young children – the more relaxed you are as a parent, the more relaxed they are.”

About Anthia Chng

When she's not trawling through Youtube for the latest beauty trends, Anthia spends her time reading up on the hottest restaurants and bars to visit. Desserts make her knees go weak, but if you really want to win her over, anything with salted caramel, peanut butter or matcha will work.